By Blake Jackson
Jefferson Farm and Garden, run by the University of Missouri Extension in Columbia, is once again supporting local gardens by growing and distributing free vegetable bedding plants across the state.
This year, about 5,000 plants have already been sent to over 750 educational and community gardens. These donations are part of a Family Nutrition Program grant, connected to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), aimed at combining healthy eating with gardening education.
Larry Roberts, the MU Extension state garden coordinator, leads the program and oversees the training of educators who bring gardening skills to communities.
“I like being outside working with the plants and helping people,” said Roberts, who has worked with MU Extension for 26 years.
Roberts expects 10,000 more plants to be sent out during the summer and fall. The greenhouse produces crops like peppers, tomatoes, cucumbers, and watermelon for summer gardens, and broccoli, lettuce, and cabbage for fall planting.
Gardens receiving the plants are asked to track the amount of produce harvested and how it is used in their communities. While not all gardens report data, Jo Britt-Rankin, MU Extension professor of health sciences, said that “last year 32% of our gardens reported harvesting more than $36,000 worth of produce.”
Jefferson Farm distributes plants three times a year and also uses donated seeds. The program not only supports food security but also serves as a platform to train and empower future leaders in agriculture and nutrition.
Through this hands-on initiative, MU Extension helps strengthen community ties and encourages healthy food choices across Missouri.
Photo Credit: university-of-missouri
Categories: Missouri, Business, Rural Lifestyle